Richmond Public Library is your public library. Although books are in our DNA, public libraries of today are so much more. In the spirit of holiday giving, we are presenting (see what we did there?) a series of blog posts highlighting all of the resources available to you — in the library, or at home — to become a Richmond Public Library power user. All you need is a library card. Don’t have a library card? Find out how to get one here.
Whether you are in a formal program of study, or just a curious autodidact, the Richmond Public Library has premium online resources to help you be a stellar student. These resources are available to use inside the library, or at home with your library card.
Brainfuse
A very easy and intuitive eLearning site for all ages. Get real-time professional help with tutors, writing feedback, GED and US citizenship test prep, MS Office, resumes and cover letters, and more.
Career Online High School
This diploma / career certification program is a pilot program funded in select libraries through the Library of Virginia and is open to library card holders who are at least 20 years old. Graduates earn a private high school diploma, not a GED.
Find It Virginia
Offered through the generosity of the Library of Virginia, and includes online learning and digital content for all ages. Available with a library card from any Virginia public library. Includes special topics like a Deaf Culture Digital Library, Resources for Virginia Military Families, and a map of Virginia Wifi Hotspot locations.
The Great Courses
Calling all autodidacts! The world’s most engaging professors provide you with an immersive learning experience on a wide variety of topics including the geological wonders of the world, how to write best-selling fiction, touring Iceland, and evening training your Great Dane. Whatever your interest, there is a Great Course waiting for you, from Art to Zoology. Also available from Hoopla as a BingePass – one week of unlimited streaming of the Great Courses, using just one borrow!
JSTOR
If you like primary sources, you will love JSTOR. You can explore the world’s knowledge, culture, and ideas, and access scanned from academic journals and books from more than 75 disciplines. Available for use in any Richmond Public Library branch.
Learning Express Library
If you are looking for tests, tutorials, or ebooks, look no further. Learning Express includes mathematics skills practice, SAT and ACT prep courses, Microsoft Office 365 classes, and real estate exam practice tests — just to name a few. Created by experts to help you achieve your learning goals.
MasterFILE Complete
Do you love magazines, but don’t want the hassle or expense of multiple subscriptions? MasterFILE has popular titles, as well as scholarly journal articles and books. You can create project folders on “My Dashboard” for ongoing research and to keep track of all your searches.
Medline Plus
Are you looking for trusted health information? Maybe you have a new Rx or a family member has had some medical issues. Start with Medline Plus when you want high-quality, easy to understand answers. A service of the National Library of Medicine – the world’s largest medical library.
NewsBank
Read the Richmond Times-Dispatch and other U.S. daily newspapers.
Pro tip: want to access R T-D every day online? Follow these steps: log in to NewsBank with your 13 digit library card. Click on “Richmond Times-Dispatch Collection” under Quick Links. Click on “Richmond Times-Dispatch (VA) 2018-Current” link. Click on the current date under “View Recent Issues”. You will see a scanned copy of the current issue of the paper. Works best on a desktop computer or tablet.
Niche Academy
For individuals, organizations, or groups, Niche Academy provides an easy-to-use learning platform and professional training presented as entertaining content.
Universal Class
Improve your skill set. Beef up your resume. Go for the promotion. Universal Class offers over 500 classes, and most offer CE (continuing education) credits and/or certificates of completion. Find courses in areas such as accounting, alternative medicine, parenting and family, web development, and even teacher resources.
Transparent Language Online
Maybe you just want to learn a few words or phrases in a new language, or brush up rusty skills. Maybe you want to become completely proficient in another language. Transparent Language can offer you listening, speaking, and writing skills, as well as a more robust learning program. You decide! Over 100 languages and growing, including English for speakers of over 25 languages. Available through the generosity of the Library of Virginia.
World Book
The encyclopedia you remember and know so well, but in an easy to use online format. Includes a kids version, a Spanish-language version, and Early World of Learning.
